Metroparks Toledo recognized a long-time employee and nature photographer at the park board’s February 23 meeting with a standing ovation.
Scott Carpenter, director of public relations, said it was his honor “to recognize someone who has been a part of our team for 50 years–our friend and co-worker Art Weber.”
Mr. Carpenter noted that many people may only know Mr. Weber from his byline on photographs and in newsletters and other publications, including, he quipped, “photography on some of the finest restrooms in Lucas County and the Metroparks.”
What people don’t know is that “for five decades, Art has been telling the Metroparks story.”
Through his photography, Mr. Weber has shown his “natural instincts to capture the moment and share it with others,” Mr. Carpenter explained.
And he believes in highlighting the careers of other photographers, Mr. Carpenter said, noting that from 2002 to 2015 he was director of the National Center for Nature Photography at Secor Park.
“He and Karen Pugh helped launch or enhance the careers of nature photographers locally and nationwide by showcasing their work,” the public relations director said.
But Mr. Weber’s career dates to 1972 when he joined the Metroparks staff, following passage of the first park levy.
The University of Toledo graduate served as public information manager. Just two years later, voters approved a levy to purchase what is today Wildwood park. During his tenure, Metroparks grew astronomically with a total of 21 parks today and multi-purpose trail systems throughout the county.
For 30 years, Mr. Weber served as the park district spokesperson and also could be found behind the lens, “becoming a nationally recognized nature photographer and writer.”
Visitors to one of the more recent park holdings, Fallen Timbers Battlefield, will see interpretive panels illustrated with images of re-enactors that Mr. Weber photographed during a taping of the History Channel documentary on the battle, Mr. Carpenter explained, noting his photography can be found on buildings and walls throughout Metroparks.
Although he retired from full-time status a number of years ago, Mr. Weber remains a part-time park employee, photographing the region’s natural resources and Metroparks assets.
Park commissioner Fritz Byers recalled his friendship with Mr. Weber, which began more than 40 years ago. “He is friendly, a little quirky and always reliable. He is the very best in the world at what he does.”
Mr. Byers noted the photographer’s eye for “telling detail and flawless sense of composition.” And he commended him on his ability to “wait patiently for just the right moment when nature reveals itself in all its beauty. You are an inspiration to all of us.”
Board president Scott Savage commended Mr. Weber for his service, pointing out that the “work we do is grounded on the incredible start you and people like you gave Metroparks. But for you, this park district wouldn’t be what it is today.”
Mr. Weber thanked the board, but added, “I’m getting a lot of credit for things that aren’t me.”
Over the years, he was asked why he stayed. “We were a family,” he responded. “I’ve worked with great minds, great workers and this board is fantastic. These are not just extraordinarily talented people; they are great people.”
Of his photography, he said, “You don’t go into this business to make money, but there are so many more rewards.”
Other Business
In other business, the park commissioners:
•Agreed to apply to the Ohio Public Works Commission for Clean Ohio Conservation Program funding not to exceed $1.5 million. “We are looking at different projects to maximize the use of funds,” explained Allen Gallant, director of community development, noting that in the past, Metroparks has been allocated $1.2 million for projects.
Tim Schetter, director of natural resources, said they are looking at two areas–the Oak Openings corridor and Glass City Park in east Toledo.
•Amended a SmithGroup professional services contract for the second phase of Glass City park to reflect the Market Hall restaurant interior design and buildout. Scope of the project calls for restaurant concept development, design documentation, city and health department submittals and construction administration.
Cost for the work will be $68,000 with a $6,800 contingency bringing the total to $1.3 million.
The board also amended a professional architecture and engineering services agreement with the Collaborative for the structure at 815 Front Street, Glass City park. The amended amount is $229,800 with a 10 percent contingency.
•Authorized Mr. Gallant to seek a grant from the county board of developmental disabilities for up to $50,000, which would be used to support the My Mentor and Me summer program. The day camp is designed for special needs individuals and their peers.
“We’ve received grants from them over the past few years,” Mr. Gallant said, noting the program has benefited more than 200 children.
•Authorized Mr. Gallant to seek a Paddling Enhancement grant of up to $75,000 through the Department of Natural Resources, division of state parks and watercraft. If awarded, the funding would go toward an ADA compliant boat access ramp at Providence park.
•Approved the design and installation of art at Glass City park at a cost not to exceed $290,000. Graphite Design will design and install the custom art feature.
•Paid bills for January totaling $5.3 million.
~Jane Maiolo
